Intraoperative US during surgery for pancreatic cancer

Intraoperative US was performed with a 5-MHz linear array probe during 16 surgical procedures in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In four patients no particular advantage accrued from intraoperative US because of the presence of huge pancreatic masses fixed to surrounding structures. In three other patients with an incorrect preoperative diagnosis, intraoperative US promptly identified the neoplastic nature, site, and extent of the pancreatic mass. In the remaining nine patients, intraoperative US confirmed the results of preoperative workup; nevertheless, the method allowed direct visualization of ductal as well as vascular involvement, enabling the surgeon to establish the operability of the lesion and avoid the risks of lengthy and laborious dissection. In the authors' experience, intraoperative US during laparatomy for pancreatic neoplasms shortens operating time, reduces surgical trauma, and lowers the risk of performing major surgery for mere palliation